You must meet certain photo standards as per Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) if you are a submitting your application for Canadian Citizenship. It’s crucial to note that Canadian Citizenship photographs may differ slightly from those required for Canadian passports, permanent residence, or immigration.
Photo Requirements for Canadian Citizenship
It is suggested that you get your portrait taken by a professional photographer that specializes and familiar with Canadian citizenship photo specifications.
- Two identical passport photos (except Renunciation applications, where only one photo is required)
- Photographs must be printed on basic photographic paper of good quality.
- On the back of the images, write the name of the photographer or studio, the studio address, and the date the photos were shot.
- On the backside of the photos, write the applicants name.
Size of the photo Required for Canadian Citizenship
The Canadian citizenship photo’s dimensions are 50 mm wide x 70 mm high (2 inches wide x 2- 3/4 inches long), and the height of the head is between 31 mm (1- 1/4 inches) and 36 mm (1- 7/16 inches) from chin to top of the head. The crown refers to the top of the head, or where the top of the head or skull would be if it could be seen if it weren’t concealed by hair or a head covering. The images must contain the top of the shoulders and a full front view of the head, with the face in the center of the image.
Other requirements for Canadian Citizenship pictures include:
- Photographed with a neutral expression
- Applicant’s eyes are open and visible.
- Applicant must not be smiling on the photo.
- There should be no shadows, glares, or flash reflections in the lighting.
- Straight-on, centred, and squared face and shoulders to the camera
- Represent the applicant’s natural skin tones
- Photo taken within the last six months
- Original photograph that has not been changed in any manner or copied from another photograph
Photo Background
Photograph the subject against a basic white background with a clear contrast between their face and the background. The photograph should not be damaged or scratched, nor can it be overexposed or underexposed. Some IRCC offices will not accept images taken at home or on heavyweight paper, so make sure you don’t use your home printer; instead, go to a photo lab to prevent having your photo rejected.
Glasses
If you normally wear glasses, you can continue to do so as long as they are not coloured and do not obscure or impair your vision in any way. Sunglasses are not permitted.
Head Coverings
If you normally use a cosmetic accessory, such as a wig, you are permitted to do so as long as it does not obscure your appearance. Religious head coverings may be worn if they do not obscure any facial features.
Instructions for Self photo for Canadian Citizenship while at Home
Although taking the photograph at home is challenging, but it is permissible. All you have to do now is follow the official requirements explained above, as well as the five simple steps outlined below.
- Find a good spot to stand where there is enough of natural light.
- Request that someone snap a picture of you, or set up the camera on a tripod about 4 feet away.
- Pose in accordance with the photo requirements for Canadian citizenship.
- Use the app or the online web editor to size the photo if required.
- Receive a file ready for printing or forwarding in a digital version through e-mail.
Related Article: US Visa Photo Requirements